Trigeminal neuralgia is a condition that can cause excruciating facial pain, usually due to compression of the trigeminal nerve or other causes. Other conditions can be mistaken for trigeminal neuralgia, as they can have similar symptoms and presentation. These include:

Medical history and a physical examination are necessary for medical professionals to accurately diagnose trigeminal neuralgia and rule out other similar conditions.

Some people may experience severe dental pain and consult a dentist before reaching out to a medical professional. A dentist will look for common causes of dental pain, such as an infection, cavities, or broken teeth. They might also give you an X-ray.

If they rule out issues with your teeth, a doctor or medical professional will evaluate your medical history and symptoms to rule out any other possible conditions, including temporomandibular joint syndrome. They will ask you more in-depth questions about your symptoms, especially your attacks of pain, such as:

  • how often the pain occurs
  • how severe your pain is
  • how long your attacks of pain last
  • what areas of your face are affected

Your doctor will also request an MRI scan to help diagnose trigeminal neuralgia. They might also order an MRA to evaluate the blood vessels supplying the brain.

The MRI can help identify a secondary or other cause of facial pain, such as:

  • inflammation of the lining of the sinuses (sinusitis)
  • tumors on one of the facial nerves
  • nerve damage caused by multiple sclerosis (MS)

If you suspect your symptoms match trigeminal neuralgia, contact a doctor for an in-depth assessment. They can help diagnose the condition and possibly rule out other potential conditions that match your symptoms.